Rangers appoint Mark Warburton as manager

ENGLISHMAN Mark Warburton has been appointed as Rangers’ new manager after agreeing a three-year deal, the club have announced.

Mark Warburton, left, has been given a three-year deal as Rangers manager with Davie Weir alongside him as assistant. Picture: Rangers FC/PA

The former Brentford boss, who will be assisted by ex-Light Blues captain Davie Weir, has been tasked with leading the Scottish Championship side to promotion at the first attempt by Gers chairman Dave King.

The 52-year-old takes over from interim boss Stuart McCall, who was overlooked for the position after a humiliating 6-1 play-off final defeat to Motherwell cost the club their Scottish Premiership return.

Brentford announced in February that Warburton would leave at the end of the season.

New Rangers manager Mark Warburton chats with a fan after arriving at Glasgow Airport. Picture: SNS

Warburton was appointed Bees manager in December 2013, moving from his previous role as sporting director, following Uwe Rosler’s departure to Wigan.

He led them to promotion from Sky Bet League One five months later and they finished last campaign in the Championship play-off places, but were beaten over two legs by Middlesbrough in the semi-final.

McCall had taken over the role on Rangers manager in March on an interim basis following the resignation of Kenny McDowall, leading them to the Scottish Premiership play-off final where they lost heavily to Motherwell.

Announcing Warburton’s arrival in a statement, Rangers added: “The Rangers board would like to express its gratitude to Stuart McCall and Kenny Black for their contribution to the club in very difficult circumstances.

“They will always be welcomed back to Ibrox at any time. We wish them success in their futures.”

Warburton and Weir were officially unveiled at a press conference earlier this afternoon.